- ZA HPRA A1919-1
- Unidad documental simple
- 6 January 1917
Agrees that Smuts has done very well. It is possible Smuts might now attend the Conference and leave the campaign to others. Acknowledges Crewe's work for the Empire, hopes that affairs in South Africa will improve and that Botha's government, supported by the Unionist party, will defeat the Hertzog faction. In Britain the Coalition Government under Asquith was unpopular and Lloyd George was the only possible alternative. Long would have preferred to become a private member but Lloyd George and Bonar Law prevailed on him to accept government office.
Long is satisfied with Lloyd George.